Emergency Action Plans are the equivalent of an insurance
policy we hope to never use. It is the responsible thing to
do for our families and communities. Modern conveniences
have made us dependent on public utilities and services.

Preparedness reduces the strain on public services that follows
a widespread disaster. It also allows for animal caretakers to
focus on their work and worry less about their families.

A little knowledge and preparation can go a long way.

Remember: Plan, Prepare, and Practice! That way, should the
zombie apocalypse actually occur, your families will be among
the survivors.

HELPFUL RESOURCES

• www.ready.gov

• www.fema.gov

• www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2004-101/emrgact/emrgact.pdf

• www.uvm.edu/sites/default/files/Personal_EAP.pdf

• www.ci.northfield.mn.us/DocumentCenter/View/648

John Sancenito is the President of INA, an international risk
management and security consulting firm. He is a a former
law enforcement professional who specializes in research laboratory security. Follow him on Twitter: @JSancenito.

a tool kit, and blankets. A more complete list of materials can
be found online or pre-made kits are available for purchase.

STEP 3: PRACTICE

Practicing what do in an emergency is essential. Every household member should know what to do in an emergency. This
is particularly true with young children.

Every household member should have a clear understanding of how to access the nature of the emergency and what
actions they are expected to take. Drills should be conducted
once per week until everyone is comfortable with what to
do and then monthly thereafter. The time of the drills should
also be altered as things look different in times of darkness.

The human body reacts to stress by releasing adrenaline
and cortisol into the bloodstream. This “fight or flight”
response may also cause confusion and a loss of short term
memory. In an emergency, the mind resorts to long term
memory and past experiences. The lack thereof causes panic
and dysfunction. Repetitive training commits response to
threatening conditions to long term memory and provides a
base of knowledge to draw on. This increases the likelihood
of quick action and decreases the probability of freezing
during an emergency situation.